Developers protest intolerance of diversity

Hundreds of game developers have added their signatures to an open letter calling for a more balanced and equal industry, and greater level of understanding in the face of different points-of-view.

The letter was circulated by Andreas Zecher of Spaces of Play, an independent studio based in Berlin. It calls for people to take action when they see "threats of violence or harm" or "hateful, harassing speech."

"We believe that everyone, no matter what gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or religion has the right to play games, criticize games and make games without getting harassed or threatened," the letter reads. "It is the diversity of our community that allows games to flourish."

At the time of writing, the letter had been signed by nearly 1400 developers from a wide variety of backgrounds - from indies and academics all the way up to huge companies like Nintendo, EA and Riot Games. There are plenty of famous names in there, too, for anyone who takes the time to read the whole thing.

The timing of this letter is no accident, following as it does a couple of very dispiriting weeks for the industry. At this point, the public abuse and death threats received by Zoe Quinn and Anita Sarkeesian need no introduction, but the fallout has reached far beyond the games press and into mainstream media.

To add your support, follow the link.